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Four years after spinal fusion surgery

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julia15874
julia15874

Hi everyone, I just thought I would give anyone a glimmer of optimism, five years ago I had spinal fusion surgery, my S1 L5 was so damaged after a herniated disc and was in total agony, I couldn't walk or anything I was on a cocktail of drugs to keep me going and my life was not worth getting out of bed for, I went to see a specialist her diagnosed my problem and told me I needed spinal fusion, I underwent the procedure in January 5th 201, it was really scary and I knew I would have a year to recover, the year at times was frustrating and I couldn't bend lift and twist for six of those months, I was really religious in keeping up with my exercises from the Phisio and five years on I'm riding horses again, skiing, biking, even running half marathons, it was the most best decision of my life and I will always be eternally grateful to the medical team I was under. Julia x

2 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Mariav
    Mariav julia15874

    Posted

    That's very good to hear. I had a microdisctectomy/lam. My back it's worst now. I still have a bulging disc and when it flares up, I can't walk well, can't sleep on my back or sleep on my side. One doctor tells me spinal fusion, and another tells me no unless it gets worst. I am very confused and in pain. I am in Chicago. Where are you and who did your surgery if you can share.

    • julia15874
      julia15874 Mariav

      Posted

      Hi I'm in the Uk, in Yorkshire, I went privately when my back was really bad, obviously things would of been really slow here if I had counted on the NHS, not that I'm complaining about the NHS as they do a fine job but really overstretched now and unless your an emergency I'm afraid your waiting months, but at least u will be treated at some point, I couldn't walk without been in agony, the pain radiated all the way down my leg, it's a scary operation without risks but if you are in so pain, it seems you have nothing to loose, I thought I would throw some positive vibes out that there is success after spinal surgery, I must say do some research and find a recommended surgeon, mine was superb, I've hardly got a scar, the downside is I can get stiffness in the winter months due to the rods and screws. But I feel great, good luck xx

  • hope4cure
    hope4cure julia15874

    Posted

    Julia, absolutely wonderful news. The best story of he human spirit and will to overcome what life throws at us. 
  • tracey07174
    tracey07174 julia15874

    Posted

    Im the same as you Julia, I had spinal fusion only 9 months ago and am now feeling the benefit after a slow recovery.  I had mine done in Salisbury, Wilts on the nhs and my surgeon was fantastic.  I can say truthfully now that I am glad that I had it done as I had so much pain in my legs prior to surgery.  Its great to hear some positive news as well.

    Tracey

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